What Is a Pre-Demolition Asbestos Survey—And Why It’s Required
If you’re preparing to tear down a home, commercial building, or industrial facility in Western New York, there’s one critical step you can’t skip: the pre-demolition asbestos survey.
At Regional Environmental Demolition Inc. (R.E.D.), we help perform these inspections regularly across Buffalo, Niagara Falls, and surrounding areas—and we’re often asked, “Is this really required?”
The short answer: Yes.
And not just for safety—but also to stay compliant with New York State asbestos laws.
What Is a Pre-Demolition Asbestos Survey?
A pre-demolition asbestos survey is a mandatory inspection to identify asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) in any structure scheduled for demolition or major renovation.
This survey:
- Locates and tests materials that may contain asbestos (tiles, insulation, siding, plaster, roofing, etc.)
- Determines the condition of those materials—whether they’re intact, friable, or deteriorating
- Outlines removal requirements before demolition begins
Surveys must be conducted by a New York State-certified asbestos investigator, and all findings must be documented in a formal report.
Why Is It Required in New York State?
In New York, the Department of Labor (DOL) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) require asbestos surveys to prevent hazardous fiber release during demolition.
Per NYS Industrial Code Rule 56, a survey is required if:
✔ The building was constructed before 1980
✔ Demolition will disturb or remove structural materials
✔ Renovation may impact asbestos-containing components
You cannot get a permit or start demolition without submitting this documentation to your local building department. Skipping this step can lead to:
- Fines and project shutdowns
- Health risks for workers and the community
- Legal liability and cleanup costs
What Materials Are Commonly Tested?
During an asbestos survey, R.E.D. inspects and samples:
- Floor tiles and mastic
- Pipe and duct insulation
- Plaster and joint compound
- Popcorn ceilings and ceiling tiles
- Siding, shingles, and roofing tar
- HVAC components and boiler wrap
We ensure that all suspect materials are tested and safely documented before demolition proceeds.
How Long Does It Take?
A pre-demolition asbestos survey typically takes 1–2 days, depending on:
- Size of the structure
- Accessibility of materials
- Number of samples needed
Once testing is complete, we provide a detailed asbestos survey report that you can submit with your demolition permit application.
Who Needs a Pre-Demolition Asbestos Survey?
This requirement applies to:
✔ Homeowners planning full gut renovations or demolitions
✔ Commercial property owners redeveloping a site
✔ Municipalities or contractors handling abandoned or condemned buildings
✔ Developers preparing for large-scale land use changes
If you’re unsure whether your building requires one, R.E.D. can help you determine the next steps.
Don’t Skip This Step—It’s the Law
A pre-demolition asbestos survey isn’t just another item on the checklist—it’s a critical step that protects your team, your community, and your timeline.
At Regional Environmental Demolition Inc., we’re licensed and certified to perform asbestos inspections, surveys, and abatement services in full compliance with NYS laws and EPA regulations. We handle everything from testing to removal, so you can move forward with confidence.
Need a pre-demolition asbestos survey in Western New York? Contact R.E.D. today to schedule your inspection and keep your project safe and compliant.
